Server needed

[JoelM]

What is MAPS? When I search for it I of course get driving directions. LOL

 

[gpg]

I have four workstations(one laptop and three desktops) in a P2P network here at my home. It’s really helped me get a handle on networking as I venture forth in my new IT career, Now I would like to add an inexpensive server to the mix so that I can master the server and learn everything about creating a domain, joining workstations, etc.

What type of server should I buy? Seems that a refurb would make the most sense.. but I am unsure about CPU type/model, etc. or, should I build one? There won’t be a high workload on these machines. No databases or SQL or whatnot. Just learning networking by creating my own.

If you have a state surplus center where your state sells off old systems you might be able to get a fairly nice server cheap.

gpg

 

[YeOldeStonecat]

What is MAPS? When I search for it I of course get driving directions. LOL

Microsoft Action Pack Subscription.

I've had that since back in the....well, I had a box of NT 4 Server.."NFR"...Not For Resale.
Soon after that, Action Pack came in CD binders, you'd get a CD and license of every Microsoft product made. Meant for IT people to "install/use/learn"...but not to resell. For internal use only, to learn on.

So I'd use that, with "old servers" I'd come across (when you're in IT you can come across old servers a lot, clients retired servers, etc). I'd install Small Business Server 2000, 2003...over and over and over...learn active directory, learn Exchange, install, break, fix, reinstall, break, fix, install..repeat process over and over.

It's how I did much of my learning! Thanks for MAPs!

 

[Diggs]

I've mentioned it before, but if you are hoping to support businesses that are running domain servers/controllers, Active Directory, group policy, etc. home schooling might not get you there. You almost need to be immersed in that environment and tutor under a systems admin that knows his stuff and is willing to share. I've been in this for a very long time. Worked in but not IT'd in a domained environment for quite a few years and have a good understanding of the details but still don't consider myself capable to offer support in domain environments. It's not really an issue for me as I have my hands full with residential and SOHO. I'd consider maybe time better spent on learning Linux, iOS, Chrome OS, etc.

 

[Markverhyden]

Microsoft Action Pack Subscription. Action Pack came in CD binders, you'd get a CD and license of every Microsoft product made. Meant for IT people to "install/use/learn"...but not to resell. For internal use only, to learn on.

Way back when I was at CompUSA, 2000 or so, I discovered one of those binders in the back of house. Every store got a shipment and they just tossed them in a shelf in a cuby. I was beyond happy. Just made copies of everything as they came in. But mostly interested in the OS's. What a huge help that was in getting into the B2B world. But after they jettisoned the training business the shipments stopped.

 

[RetiredGuy1000]

I'd consider maybe time better spent on learning Linux, iOS, Chrome OS, etc.

Well, break/fix is broken...at least in my town. There doesn't seem to be any business. I know there is, and that I am brand new but this is still way too slow for me.

So, I am planning to evolve into a MSP. Thus, the need to learn server. In fact I have a lot to learn and am looking at all that certificate stuff as well as going out to Las Vegas in a few weeks to attend ChannelCon.

Apprenticeship. Now I would be open to that. At least for a year or two. I will research local MSP companies and see if I can join one. Great advice.